Inglis Drever made Cheltenham history by beating Kasbah Bliss in a thrilling finish for a third World Hurdle win.
The 11-8 favourite, who also triumphed in 2005 and 2007, was guided to the front by Denis O'Regan as they approached the last.
They jumped the final hurdle strongly and set off up the hill.
Christophe Pieux on French challenger Kasbah Bliss chased hard but they were unable to get past the defending champion as the post approached.
"He's an amazing horse - he's an absolute machine. I think he could win it again next year," O'Regan told BBC Radio 5 Live.
As expected, Lough Derg made the running but it was dual Champion Hurdle winner Hardy Eustace who went on at the fourth-last but his challenge soon faded as he struggled over the three-mile trip.
Kazal made his bid for glory after the third-last but he was pursued by Kasbah Bliss, Inglis Drever and My Way De Solzen.
But there was no denying Inglis Drever, trained by Howard Johnson and owned by Andrea and Graham Wylie, who jumped into the lead at the final flight although he had to work hard for his success.
606: DEBATE
A delighted Johnson described the victory as one of the best training performances of his life.
"It feels great, he missed a year and he's come good again. All credit to the horse firstly," he said.
"Andrea and Graham have been very good supporters for the yard and I'm pleased for them. It's just unbelievable.
"I'll have a word with Graham at the end of the season and if he's a chance of winning the Order of Merit I might think about going to Aintree, my lucky course.
"We might come back for one more next year but he won't have a lot more races."
World Hurdle
1. Inglis Drever (Denis O'Regan) 11-8 Fav
2. Kasbah Bliss (C Pieux) 9-1
3. Kazal (B J Geraghty) 12-1
17 ran
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